what type of lawyer do i need if i'm having a problem with my landlord in md

by Elwin Dach 9 min read

Do I need a lawyer for a landlord-tenant case?

A qualified landlord tenant lawyer can address your particular legal needs, explain the law, and represent you in court. Take the first step now and contact an attorney in your area from our directory to discuss your specific legal situation.

Do I need a lawyer to get reimbursement from my Landlord?

A tenant attorney will help resolve any dispute between you and your landlord by interpreting the lease agreement and either representing you in a lawsuit or advising you on your next steps. If your tenant attorney is only reviewing your lease, you can expect to feel comfortable that the agreement between you and your landlord is legally binding and free of any surprises.

How can I resolve problems with my Landlord without going to court?

Legal issues related to real estate and the landlord/tenant relationship come in a variety of forms. These often include: Landlord/tenant disputes, such as those related to rental rates, late or unpaid rent, security deposits, disagreements about the habitability of rental property, and other tenant rights and landlord rights issues.

How do I get a lawyer to sue my Landlord?

Jul 06, 2021 · A landlord–tenant attorney is one who specializes in the legal issues surrounding landlord and tenant rights. This type of attorney is an incredibly valuable resource for you when you need it most. Legal expertise can guide even the most prepared landlord through the challenges of managing their rental property.

Where can I file a complaint against my landlord in Maryland?

If a landlord will not make necessary repairs to a rental property, contact Housing and Community Development at 240-314-8320. All other complaints can be made by completing the Landlord- Tenant Complaint Form. 111 Maryland Ave.

How do I file a complaint against a landlord in PG County Maryland?

To file a complaint, please call PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County. Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. except Federal and County holidays.

How do I file a complaint against a landlord in Baltimore City?

You may contact the Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) by calling our main office number at 410-396-3232, or the Maryland Relay System (for the hearing impaired) at 711, or 1-800-735-2258 to find a representative who can address your concerns. You may also send a Fax to 410-545-3238.

What are my rights as a tenant in Maryland?

Under Maryland law, tenants have a right to freedom from housing discrimination, a right to certain security deposit protections, the right to freedom from landlord retaliation, and the right to be protected after domestic violence. Learn four rights of tenants in Maryland.Aug 21, 2019

How long is the eviction process in PG County MD?

Maryland Eviction Timeline
Notice Received by TenantsAverage Timeline
Issuing an Official Notice7 – 90 days
Issuance and Serving of Rule for PossessionA few days
Court Hearing and JudgmentAt least 5 days
Issuance of Writ of RestitutionA few hours to a 4 days
1 more row
Dec 22, 2021

Is there a limit on rent increase in Maryland?

All Services » Department of Housing and Community Affairs

So, through May 15, 2022, landlords must not notify tenants of a rent increase greater than 0.4%. Any rent increase (month-to-month, one-year or two year) cannot occur until 90 days after the landlord gives the tenant written notice of the increase.

Can I sue my landlord for emotional distress?

Can I sue my landlord for pain and suffering? As part of a personal injury claim, you could be compensated for any pain or suffering you were caused to experience as a result of your landlord's failings. This includes physical and psychiatric harm, as well as financial losses.Apr 25, 2022

How long does a landlord have to sue for damages in Maryland?

The Maryland Filing Deadline

In Maryland, whether your potential case involves damage to real property (your house or your land, for example) or personal property (including damage to vehicles), it must be filed within three years, according to Maryland Courts & Judicial Proceedings Code Ann. section 5-101.

How do I report landlord to housing authority?

HUD calls this a double crime: one against both tenants and taxpayers. To report a bad landlord to the Multifamily Housing Complaint Line call toll-free at (800) MULTI-70 (800) 685-8470) / TTY (800) 432-2209.

What your landlord Cannot do?

Landlords cannot enter tenanted properties without giving proper notice. Landlords cannot arbitrarily end someone's tenancy before the lease expires. Arbitrary, mid-lease rent increases are not permitted unless specified in certain circumstances in the lease or by the municipality.

What are landlords responsible for in Maryland?

Property Conditions

Landlords have responsibility to use ordinary care to keep common areas in safe condition. Utilities are essential services necessary to make a dwelling livable. These include electricity, gas, water/sewage disposal, and trash collection.

How long does a landlord have to fix something in Maryland?

Making Repairs

The amount of time the landlord has to complete repairs depends on the severity of the defect and the danger it poses to the tenant but should not take more than 30 days to complete. Landlord Access – Landlord may enter the property for certain reasons including emergency or to make necessary repairs.
Dec 8, 2021

Your Landlord Is Evicting You

If your landlord serves you with a termination notice that you intend to fight, hiring a lawyer can increase your chance of success. Choose a lawye...

Your Landlord Is Evicting You Without Proper Court Procedures

Landlords must follow eviction procedures set forth by state and local law. If your landlord tries to evict you by taking matters into his own hand...

Your Landlord Discriminates Against You

If you believe your landlord is discriminating against you, you may need a lawyer to stop the illegal actions and help you recover damages for any...

Your Landlord Won't Make Necessary Repairs

If your landlord isn't fulfilling important obligations under your lease and the law, it can lead to major problems. For example, think of the land...

Your Landlord Isn't Fulfilling His Promises

Sometimes, landlords make promises to encourage hesitant applicants to rent from them. For example, if an applicant is concerned about the neighbor...

You've been Injured Or Made Ill

Accidents can happen, even at a well-run rental property. However, if an accident is the result of the landlord's carelessness, you may have a lega...

Your Property Has been Damaged

Sometimes, a landlord's failure to maintain the rental property causes damage to your personal property. For example, a landlord's faulty wiring re...

How to Get A Lawyer's Help

If you are in need of a lawyer, choose one with expertise in landlord-tenant matters. For help in getting a lawyer, read the article "How to Find a...

What is a landlord tenant attorney?

A landlord/tenant attorney can help you analyze your situation, determine what your rights are, and make a well-informed decision about how to protect your interests. We've created a list of trusted landlord/tenant attorneys to help you find a lawyer who is the best fit for your situation.

What are the legal issues with landlords?

Legal issues related to real estate and the landlord/tenant relationship come in a variety of forms. These often include: 1 Landlord/tenant disputes, such as those related to rental rates, late or unpaid rent, security deposits, disagreements about the habitability of rental property, and other tenant rights and landlord rights issues. 2 Eviction, either seeking to evict a tenant or helping a tenant fight eviction and stay in their home (especially during times where additional tenants' rights/renters' rights are in effect, such as the COVID-19/coronavirus pandemic). 3 Rental agreements and lease agreements, including initial drafting and review of rental contracts, updates to the terms of the lease, and other contract-related matters. 4 Discrimination claims, including those related to housing discrimination on the basis of race, national origin, sex, religion, disability or other classification protected under the federal Fair Housing Act or other state or local ordinances. 5 Commercial real estate matters, from negotiating an initial commercial lease to litigating business disputes related to the lease or other issues. 6 Personal injury claims, if a property is not kept safe and in proper repair and someone is injured as a result. 7 Addressing tangential issues for landlords, including business law and estate planning-related issues such as business succession planning, and protection of rental property assets in a divorce or other family law matter.

What to do if landlord tenant attorney is not doing the job you expect?

If your landlord tenant attorney is not doing the kind of job you expect, don’t hesitate to seek out another one that may be a better fit. Whether the attorney is too hard to get ahold of or your personalities just don’t mesh, don’t get stuck with someone who is not meeting your needs one way or another.

What is a landlord tenant attorney?

A landlord tenant attorney is one who specializes in the legal issues surrounding landlord and tenant rights and is a valuable resource for you when you need it most. Legal expertise can guide even the most prepared landlord through the challenges of managing your rental property.

What to do if landlord discriminates against you?

If you believe your landlord is discriminating against you, you may need a lawyer to stop the illegal actions and help you recover damages for any harm you suffered. One option is to hire a lawyer to sue the landlord in court.

What happens if a landlord doesn't maintain the property?

Sometimes, a landlord's failure to maintain the rental property causes damage to your personal property. For example, a landlord's faulty wiring repair job could spark an electrical fire in your living room, damaging your furniture and other belongings.

What to do if landlord serves termination notice?

If your landlord serves you with a termination notice that you intend to fight, hiring a lawyer can increase your chance of success. Choose a local lawyer that is knowledgeable about landlord-tenant law and has significant experience fighting evictions.

What to do if landlord evicts you?

Landlords must follow eviction procedures set forth by state and local law. If your landlord tries to evict you by taking matters into his own hands—for example, by locking you out, canceling your utilities, or even removing your doors, windows, or possessions—consider hiring a lawyer.

What happens if you don't have renters insurance?

If you have renter's insurance, your insurance company will cover the loss and its lawyers will then seek reimbursement from your landlord. If you don't have insurance or have inadequate coverage and the damage to your property is substantial, consider hiring a lawyer to help you obtain reimbursement from your landlord.

What can a landlord/tenant lawyer do?

A landlord/tenant lawyer can help you win an eviction lawsuit, steer clear of liability, and collect or return a security deposit. Whether you are a landlord drawing up a lease or a renter trying to get back your security deposit, an attorney can assist in cases of all types, especially those involving illegal discrimination, property damage, ...

What is a tenant lawyer?

On the other hand, a landlord / tenant lawyer also helps landlords who have tenants breaking rules, such as moving out three months early or refusing to pay rent. Tenant eviction laws are very specific, with different rules in each city.

1 attorney answer

A lack of HVAC would constitute a condition that materially affects the physical health and safety of an ordinary tenant. To resolve such conditions, you have to comply with the landlord - tenant provisions set out in the Texas Property Code. You cannot simply declare that you are fed up and move out.

Brian W. Erikson

A lack of HVAC would constitute a condition that materially affects the physical health and safety of an ordinary tenant. To resolve such conditions, you have to comply with the landlord - tenant provisions set out in the Texas Property Code. You cannot simply declare that you are fed up and move out.

Things Break Down

California law says you have a legal right to a livable apartment. If your landlord refuses to make repairs, you legally can withhold rent until the problem is fixed. You also can pay for repairs yourself, then subtract the amount from the next rent check.

Throwing You Out

If your landlord serves you with an eviction notice, you're entitled to at least three days to fix the problem, such as by catching up on late rent. If it's a problem you can't fix, an attorney may be able to defend you against the eviction.

Discrimination

California law bans your landlord discriminating against you because of your race, nationality, gender, sexual orientation and religion, among other reasons. This includes not only refusing to rent to you, but also charging you higher rent, giving you a poorer apartment or refusing to renew your lease.

When Money Is Tight

The DCA's online landlord/tenant book lists ways you can find an affordable lawyer. For example, you can go through legal aid groups, or talk to your county bar association about finding low-cost lawyers. If the issue with your landlord is money, you can sue in small claims court for up to $10,000.